Doha: Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa warned Saturday that any attempt by Israel to alter the 1974 Disengagement Agreement or pursue alternative arrangements, including a proposed buffer zone, would turn the region into 'a dangerous place with unknown consequences.'

According to Anadolu Agency, Sharaa spoke during a dialogue session at the Doha Forum 2025, accusing Israel of attempting to 'export its crises to other countries' and avoid responsibility for the ongoing massacres in Gaza. He alleged that Israel justifies its actions under the pretext of security concerns, while Syria has been sending positive messages aimed at strengthening regional stability since its liberation.

Sharaa insisted that Israel must strictly adhere to the 1974 agreement governing the ceasefire line in the Golan Heights. He expressed skepticism about calls for a demilitarized buffer zone, questioning who would secure the area if Syrian forces are excluded. 'There are many questions surrounding the demand for a demilitarized zone. Who will protect this area if the Syrian army is not present?' he asked.

The Syrian leader emphasized that any agreement must guarantee Syria's interests, pointing out that Syria is the party exposed to Israeli attacks, and therefore more entitled to demand withdrawal and security arrangements. He revealed that negotiations with Israel, involving US participation, are ongoing, and that all countries support Damascus' demand for Tel Aviv to withdraw to the lines prior to Dec. 8, 2024.

Sharaa further affirmed that Syria has regained many of its international relations after Bashar al-Assad's fall and has shifted from being a region that exports crises to one that can serve as a model for regional stability. He pledged to continue efforts to convince the US to fully lift the Caesar Act sanctions, noting that President Trump's administration supports the path of lifting sanctions on Syria, which would significantly aid in economic recovery and contribute to stability.

Regarding state-building efforts, Sharaa stated that Syria has transitioned to a new system of governance following the 'success of the popular revolution.' The government is now based on competence rather than quotas, and a temporary constitutional declaration has been established, with plans to draft a constitution and hold elections after four years.

Sharaa highlighted that following liberation, a comprehensive national dialogue conference was held, resulting in a temporary constitutional declaration. This declaration grants the president authority to remain for five years, during which many laws will be issued, and a constitution will be drafted to serve as the fundamental reference for the governing system. Elections are planned after four years, consistent with the transitional phase, affirming the principle that the people choose who governs them.

The Syrian government has been intensifying efforts to stabilize security across the country since Assad's overthrow on Dec. 8, 2024, after more than two decades in power.